NYC Travel Guide 2026: Things to Do, Eat, Events & More

Shakespeare in the Park 2026
2026-06-01 08:00 - 2026-08-31 17:00 UTC | Central Park, Central Park, New York City, NY, United States
Public Theater’s free Delacorte classics under stars: Star-studded Bard, digital lottery tix—Central Park tradition since ’62. 2026 lineup TBA but expect magic; line up early or win lottery—picnics, fireflies, NYC’s ultimate summer rite.

NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2026
2026-07-21 11:00 - 2026-08-17 22:00
NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2026
This event turns the spotlight on the city’s unparalleled culinary diversity, allowing food lovers to savor prix-fixe meals at hundreds of top restaurants across all five boroughs at unbeatable value—perfect for trying Michelin-starred spots, neighborhood gems, or celebrity-chef haunts without breaking the bank.
Expected Dates & Duration
While exact 2026 dates haven’t been officially announced yet (as of November 2025), the summer edition consistently runs for about 4 weeks from mid-to-late July through mid-August. Based on recent patterns:
2025: July 21–August 17 (with some extensions to Aug 31/Sept 1).
Expect similar for 2026: Likely July 20/21–August 16/17, possibly extending into early September. Reservations typically open 1-2 weeks prior (mid-July).
Deals & Pricing
Restaurants offer tiered prix-fixe menus (on-site dining only—no takeout/delivery promoted):
$30: Usually 2-course lunch or lighter options.
$45: 3-course lunch/dinner at mid-tier spots.
$60: Full 3-course dinner at upscale/fine-dining venues (often Michelin-listed).
Prices exclude beverages, tax, and tip (add ~25-30%). Weekdays (Mon-Fri) mandatory; Sundays optional; Saturdays excluded. Many spots add bonuses like signature cocktails or extended hours.
Participating Restaurants
Typically 500-600+ venues join, from steakhouses (Peter Luger) to sushi (Sushi Nakazawa) and global flavors (Thai, Italian, Latin). Highlights often include:
Michelin-starred/Bib Gourmand spots (e.g., Crown Shy, Nami Nori, Cosme).
Borough diversity: Manhattan heavy, but strong Brooklyn/Queens representation (e.g., French Louie, Palo Santo).
Reservations
Via nyctourism.com (powered by OpenTable) or direct restaurant sites—book early for hotspots!
Pro Tips:
Weekdays less crowded; Sundays for brunch vibes.
Mastercard often partners for extras (e.g., statement credits).

WEBSITE: https://nyctourism.com/restaurant-week
